Low flyby by jets over packed South African stadium sparks safety debate

A pre-game low flyby over Cape Town Stadium in South Africa sparked a safety debate after two Embraer jets operated by Airlink performed a close formation stunt ahead of a rugby match between South Africa and New Zealand. Flight tracking estimated the lead aircraft passed about 41 to 46 feet (12 to 14 metres) above the stadium roof, while the second jet flew through pink dust released as part of the show. Airlink said the maneuver complied with safety regulations, was carefully planned and rehearsed, and involved three senior captains on board per aircraft, with no passengers aboard. Still, aviation experts questioned the margin for error, warning that at such low altitude there may be little room to respond to issues like turbulence or bird strikes.